Jump to content

PlayStation 3

Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Alphathon (talk | contribs) at 04:14, 25 September 2010 (→‎PlayStation Plus). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

"PS3" redirects here. For other uses, see PS3 (disambiguation).

Template:PlayStation 3/infobox

The PlayStation 3 (プレイステーション3, Pureisutēshon Surī, officially abbreviated as PS3[1]) is the third home video game console produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and the successor to the PlayStation 2 as part of the PlayStation series. The PlayStation 3 competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles.

A major feature that distinguishes the PlayStation 3 from its predecessors is its unified online gaming service, the PlayStation Network,[2] which contrasts with Sony's former policy of relying on video game developers for online play.[3] Other major features of the console include its robust multimedia capabilities,[4] connectivity with the PlayStation Portable,[5] and its use of the Blu-ray Disc as its primary storage medium.[6] The PS3 was also the first Blu-ray 2.0-compliant Blu-ray player on the market.[7]

The PlayStation 3 was first released on November 11, 2006 in Japan,[8] November 17, 2006 in North America,[9] March 16, 2007 in the United Kingdom and Ireland and March 23, 2007 in mainland Europe and Oceania.[10][11] Two stock-keeping units were available at launch: a basic model with a 20 GB hard disk drive and a premium model with a 60 GB hard drive and several additional features[12] (the 20 GB model was not released in Europe or Oceania).[13] Since then, several revisions have been made to the console's available models, most notably with the release of a new slim model in September 2009 to coincide with rebranding of the console and its logo.[14][15]

History

Sony officially unveiled the PlayStation 3 (then marketed as PLAYSTATION 3[16]) to the public along with its original boomerang style controller[17] on May 16, 2005, during the E3 2005 conference.[18] A functional version of the system was not present there,[19] nor at the Tokyo Game Show in September 2005,[20] although demonstrations (such as Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots[19]) were held at both events on software development kits and comparable personal computer hardware.[19][20] Video footage based on the predicted PlayStation 3 specifications was also shown (notably a Final Fantasy VII tech demo).[21] The initial prototype shown in May 2005 featured two HDMI ports, three Ethernet ports and six USB ports;[22] however, when the system was shown again a year later at E3 2006, these were reduced to one HDMI port, one Ethernet port and four USB ports, presumably to cut costs.[12][23] Two hardware configurations were also announced for the console: a 20 GB model and a 60 GB model, priced at US$499 (€499) and US$599 (€599), respectively.[12] The 60 GB model was to be the only configuration to feature an HDMI port, Wi-Fi internet, flash card readers and a chrome trim with the logo in silver.[12] Both models were announced for a simultaneous worldwide release: November 11 for Japan and November 17 for North America and Europe.[24]

On September 6, 2006, Sony announced that the PAL region PlayStation 3 launch would be delayed until March 2007, due to a shortage of materials used in the Blu-ray drive.[25]

At the Tokyo Game Show on September 22, 2006, Sony announced that it would include an HDMI port on the 20 GB system, but a chrome trim, flash card readers, silver logo and Wi-Fi would not be included.[26] Also, the launch price of the Japanese 20 GB model was reduced by over 20%,[27] and the 60 GB model was announced for an open pricing scheme in Japan.[27] During the event, Sony showed 27 playable PS3 games running on final hardware.[28]

Launch

Silver PlayStation 3 consoles on showcase in 2006.
Main article: PlayStation 3 launch

The PlayStation 3 was first released in Japan on November 11, 2006 at 07:00.[8] According to Media Create, 81,639 PS3 systems were sold within 24 hours of its introduction in Japan.[29]

Soon after its release in Japan, the PS3 was released in North America on November 17, 2006.[9] Reports of violence surrounding the release of the PS3 include a customer shot,[30] campers robbed at gunpoint,[31] customers shot in a drive-by shooting with BB guns,[32] and 60 campers fighting over 10 systems.[33]

The console was originally planned for a global release through November, but the European and rest-of-the-world's release was delayed "until March" at the start of September.[34] With it being a somewhat last-minute delay, some companies had taken deposit-based pre-orders, to which Sony informed customers that they were eligible for full refunds or could continue the pre-order.[35] On January 24, 2007, Sony announced that the PlayStation 3 would go on sale on March 23, 2007 in Europe, Australia, the Middle East, Africa and New Zealand.[10][11] The system sold about 600,000 units in its first two days.[36] On March 7, 2007, the 60 GB PlayStation 3 launched in Singapore with a price of S$799.[37] The console was launched in South Korea on June 16, 2007 in a single version equipped with an 80 GB hard drive and IPTV.[38]

PS3 Slim and console rebranding

Following speculation that a 'slim' model was in the pipeline Sony officially announced the PS3 CECH-2000 model on August 18, 2009 at the Sony Gamescom press conference.[15][39] Among its features are a slimmer form factor and quieter noise when powered on. It was released in major territories by September 2009. As part of the release for the slim model, the logo was changed from the "Spider-Man font" and capitalized PLAYSTATION 3 to a more traditional PlayStation and PlayStation 2 like 'PlayStation 3' logo with "PS3" imprinted on the console.[40] Along with the console and logo redesign, the boot screen of all consoles changed from "Sony Computer Entertainment" to "PS3 PlayStation 3", with a new chime and the game start splashscreen being dropped.[41] The cover art and packaging of games has also been changed to reflect the redesign.

Console configurations

System unit

Main article: PlayStation 3 hardware

The PlayStation 3 is convex on its left side, with the PlayStation logo upright, when vertical (the top side is convex when horizontal) and has a glossy black finish. PlayStation designer Teiyu Goto stated that the Spider-Man font-inspired logo "was one of the first elements SCEI president Ken Kutaragi decided on and the logo may have been the motivating force behind the shape of PS3".[42]

The PlayStation 3 features a slot-loading 2x speed Blu-ray Disc drive for games, Blu-ray movies, DVDs, CDs and other optical media.[43] It was originally available with hard drives of 20 and 60 GB (20 GB model was not available in PAL regions)[13][44] but various sizes up to 320 GB[45][46] have been made available since then (see: model comparison). All PS3 models have user-upgradeable 2.5" SATA hard drives.[47]

The PlayStation 3 uses the Sony, Toshiba, IBM-designed Cell microprocessor as its CPU, which is made up of one 3.2 GHz PowerPC-based "Power Processing Element" (PPE) and eight Synergistic Processing Elements (SPEs).[48] The eighth SPE is disabled to improve chip yields.[49][50] Only six of the seven SPEs are accessible to developers as the seventh SPE is reserved by the console's operating system.[50] Graphics processing is handled by the NVIDIA RSX 'Reality Synthesizer', which can output resolutions from 480i/576i SD up to 1080p HD.[43] The PlayStation 3 has 256 MB of XDR DRAM main memory and 256 MB of GDDR3 video memory for the RSX.[51]

The system has Bluetooth 2.0, gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0 and HDMI 1.3a (now upgraded via firmware to spec 1.4), built in on all currently shipping models.[43] Wi-Fi networking is also built-in on the 40, 60, 80 GB and slim models while a flash card reader (compatible with Memory Stick, SD/MMC and CompactFlash/Microdrive media) is built-in on 60 GB and CECHExx 80 GB models.[43][51] The system supports up to 7 controllers that are connected via Bluetooth 2.0 technology.[52]

The PS3's hardware has also been used to build supercomputers for high-performance computing.[53] Fixstars Solutions sell a version of Yellow Dog Linux for the PlayStation 3 (originally sold by Terra Soft Solutions).[54] RapidMind produced a stream programming package for the PS3,[55] but were acquired by Intel in 2009. Also, on January 3, 2007, Dr. Frank Mueller, Associate Professor of Computer science at NCSU, clustered 8 PS3s. Mueller commented that the 256 MB of system RAM is a limitation for this particular application and is considering attempting to retrofit more RAM. Software includes: Fedora Core 5 Linux ppc64, MPICH2, OpenMP v 2.5, GNU Compiler Collection and CellSDK 1.1.[56][57][58] As a more cost-effective alternative to conventional supercomputers, the U.S. military has purchased clusters of PS3 units for research purposes.[59] Retail PS3 Slim units cannot be used for supercomputing, because the PS3 Slim lacks the ability to boot into a third-party OS.

On March 22, 2007, SCE and Stanford University released the Folding@home project for the PlayStation 3.[60] This program allows PS3 owners to lend the computing power of their consoles to help study the physical process of protein folding.

In December 2008, a group of hackers used a cluster of 200 PlayStation 3's to hack the security protocol SSL.[61]

Original model

60 GB model with Sixaxis controller

There are several original PlayStation 3 hardware models, which are commonly referred to by the size of their included hard disk drive: 20, 40, 60, 80 or 160 GB.[12][62] Although referred to by their HDD size, the capabilities of the consoles vary by region and release date. The only difference in the appearance of the first five models was the color of the trim, number of USB ports, the presence or absence of a door (which covers the flash card readers on equipped models) and some minor changes to the air vents. All retail packages include one or two Sixaxis controllers and/or a DualShock 3 controller (beginning June 12, 2008[63][64]), one miniUSB to USB cable (for connecting the controller and PlayStation Portable to the system), one composite video/stereo audio output cable, one Ethernet cable (20, 60 and CECHExx 80 GB only) and one power cable.[62][65][66] All models support software emulation of the original PlayStation,[67][68] but support for PlayStation 2 backward compatibility has continually diminished with later models and the last model to advertise integrated backward compatibility was the 80GB Metal Gear Solid 4 Bundle.[69] Compatibility issues with games for both systems are detailed in a public database hosted by the manufacturer.[70] All models, excluding the 20 GB model, include 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi. In addition to all of the features of the 20 GB model, the 60 GB model has internal IEEE 802.11 b/g Wi-Fi, multiple flash card readers (SD/MultiMedia Card, CompactFlash Type I/Type II, Microdrive,[71] Memory Stick/PRO/Duo) and a chrome colored trim.[72] In terms of hardware, the 80 GB model released in South Korea is identical to the 60 GB model released in the PAL regions, except for the difference in hard drive size.[73]

Like the South Korean and European models, the North American 80 GB (2007) model also excludes the PlayStation 2 "Emotion Engine" CPU chip.[69] However, it retains the "Graphics Synthesizer" GPU.[74] Due to the elimination of the "Emotion Engine", the level of compatibility was reduced.[69] The 40 GB, 80 GB (2008) and 160 GB models have two USB ports instead of the four USB ports on other models and do not include multiple flash card readers, SACD support,[75] or any backward compatibility with PlayStation 2 games.[14][69] This was due to the removal of "Graphics Synthesizer" GPU, which stripped the units of all PlayStation 2 based hardware.[76][77]

No official Wi-Fi or flash memory card readers were ever released by Sony for the 20 GB system, although Sony had plans to do so.[78] As of September 2009 Sony have placed no further emphasis on these proposed add-ons.[citation needed] Nevertheless, as the model features four USB 2.0 ports, wireless networking and flash memory card support can already be obtained through the use of widely available external USB adapters and third-party PS3-specific media hubs.[69]

It was rumored that the Cell processors in the third-generation PS3s (40 GB, 2008 80 GB and 160 GB) would move from a 90 nm process to the newer 65 nm process,[79] which SCEI CEO Kaz Hirai later confirmed,[80] and later to 45 nm. This change lowers the power consumption of the console and makes it less expensive to produce.[81]

Slim model

120 GB Slim model with DualShock 3 controller.

The redesigned, slimmer version of the PlayStation 3 (commonly referred to as the "PS3 Slim" and officially branded "PS3") is currently the only model in production. It features an upgradeable 120 GB, 160 GB,[45][46] 250 GB or 320 GB[45][46] hard drive and is 33% smaller, 36% lighter and consumes 34% (CECH-20xx) or 45% (CECH-21xx) less power than the previous model,[15][82][83] or one third of the original PS3 model. The Cell microprocessor has moved to a 45 nm manufacturing process, which lets it run cooler and quieter than previous models, and the cooling system has been redesigned.[84] The RSX moved to a 40 nm process [85] in the latest revision. The PS3 slim also includes support for CEC (more commonly referred to by its manufacturer brandings of BraviaSync, VIERA Link, EasyLink etc.) which allows control of the console over HDMI by using the TV's remote control. The PS3 Slim no longer has the "main power" switch like the previous PS3 models, similar to redesigned PlayStation 2 slim. Support for emulation to play PS2 titles is not present in the Slim version.[15][82]

The PS3 slim was officially released on September 1, 2009 in North America and Europe and on September 3, 2009 in Japan, Australia and New Zealand.[15][82][86][87] However, some retailers such as Amazon.com, Best Buy and GameStop started to sell the PS3 slim on August 25, 2009.[88][89] The PS3 Slim sold in excess of a million units in its first 3 weeks on sale.[90] A 250 GB Final Fantasy XIII-themed PS3 Slim, which was white in color with pink designs, was officially announced on September 24, 2009 at the Tokyo Game Show as part of a bundle in Japan for Final Fantasy XIII, it was initially revealed in U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings as the PS3 CECH-2000B.[91][92] Sony Computer Entertainment Australia also announced later that day that it would be bringing the 250 GB PS3 slim to Australia which would be bundled with other games and will not feature the Final Fantasy XIII theme. Although no North American bundles have been announced for the 250 GB PS3 slim, it is sold as a stand-alone console in North America.[93]

In July 2010, Sony announced two new sizes of Slim PS3, 160 GB and 320 GB, with the 120 GB model being discontinued in Japan.[46] These were launched on July 29, 2010 in Japan, with the 160 GB version available in "Classic White" as well as the standard "Charcoal Black".[46] The black 160 GB version was also made available as a bundle with the Japan-only DVR accessory torne.[45] It was later announced that the new sizes were to be launched in other regions, with the 160 GB model available from August 2010 in North America[94] and October 2010 in Europe.[95] The 320 GB model is to be available in North America only as part of a bundle with PlayStation Move, a PlayStation Eye and a copy of Sports Champions,[94] and in Europe with PlayStation Move, a PlayStation Eye and a demo disc.[95] The bundles are set to release on September 19, 2010 and September 15, 2010 respectively, to coincide with the launch of PlayStation Move.[94][95]

Model comparison

Further information: Timeline of PlayStation 3 SKUs
Model Features Available Colors First Available In production Available bundles
20 GB
CECHBxx
NTSC[72] 		—
  • Piano Black, Black trim
  • JP NA: November 2006
 No[96] —
60 GB
CECHAxx
NTSC[72]
  • Piano Black, Chrome trim
 No
60 GB
CECHCxx
PAL[72]

(MGS4 bundles sold with DualShock 3 controller)

80 GB
CECHExx
NTSC[72]

40 GB
CECHGxx
CECHHxx
CECHJxx
PAL, NTSC[76]

(All with Satin Silver trim)

  • Gun-Metal Grey, Gun-Metal Grey trim[d][100]
  • NA JP: November 2007
 No[101]
80 GB
CECHKxx
CECHLxx
CECHMxx
PAL, NTSC[77][101]
  • Piano Black
  • Ceramic White
  • Satin Silver[c]

(All with Satin Silver trim)

No
80 GB bundles
160 GB
CECHPxx
CECHQxx
PAL, NTSC[110][111]
  • Piano Black
  • Cloud Black[f]
120 GB slim
CECH-20xxA
CECH-21xxA
PAL, NTSC
  • Charcoal Black
  • NA EU: September 1, 2009

250 GB slim
CECH-20xxB
CECH-21xxB
PAL,[116] NTSC
  • Charcoal Black
  • White and Pink[g]
250 GB slim bundles
160 GB slim
CECH-25xxA[45]
PAL,[95] NTSC[46] 		Yes

320 GB slim
CECH-25xxB[45]
PAL,[95] NTSC[46]
  • Charcoal Black
  • Classic White[131]

Key:Template:Key box"1st Generation" Template:Key box"2nd Generation" Template:Key box"3rd Generation" Template:Key box"4th Generation"

All Piano Black and Ceramic White models have a glossy finish[132]
All models include: Blu-ray/DVD/CD drive, HDMI 1.3a,[133] Bluetooth 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T) and PlayStation One backward compatibility through software emulation.[67][68]

Model numbers differ by region. See PlayStation 3 hardware – model numbers for details.
^ a Linux support removed in firmware version 3.21. See Removal of "OtherOS" support for details
^ b Ceramic white model available in Asia and Japan only.
^ c Satin silver model available in Asia and Japan only.
^ d Gun-Metal Gray model is only available as part of the MGS4 bundle.
^ e Yakuza 3 bundle features a Ceramic White model with custom grey dragon designs on its case. This version had a limited run of 10,000 units.[106][134]
^ f "Cloud Black" (dark grey) console is only available as part of a Japanese limited edition Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children bundle and features a custom white design on the console[112]

^ g White and Pink model is only available as part of the Japanese Final Fantasy XIII bundle and features a pink design of Final Fantasy XIII character "Lightning" on its case.

Controllers and accessories

Main article: PlayStation 3 accessories

Numerous accessories for the console have been developed including the wireless Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers, the Logitech Driving Force GT, the Logitech Cordless Precision™ Controller, the BD Remote, the PlayStation Eye camera and the PlayTV DVB-T tuner/digital video recorder accessory.[135][136]

At Sony's 2006 E3 press conference, the (then) standard wireless Sixaxis controller was announced. The controller was based on the same basic design as the PlayStation 2's DualShock 2 controller but was wireless, lacked vibration capabilities, had a built-in accelerometer (that could detect motion in three directional and three rotational axes; six in total, hence the name Sixaxis) and had a few cosmetic tweaks.

At its press conference at the 2007 Tokyo Game Show, Sony announced the DualShock 3 (trademarked DUALSHOCK 3), a PlayStation 3 controller with the same function and design as the Sixaxis, but with vibration capability included.[137] Hands-on accounts describe the controller as being noticeably heavier than the standard Sixaxis controller and capable of vibration forces comparable to the DualShock 2.[138] It was released in Japan on November 11, 2007;[139] in North America on April 5, 2008;[140] in Australia on April 24, 2008; in New Zealand on May 9, 2008; in mainland Europe on July 2, 2008;[141] the United Kingdom and Ireland on July 4, 2008 and in the Seychelles on March 2010.

During E3 2009, Sony unveiled plans to release a motion controller later to be named PlayStation Move at GDC 2010. It is set to be released on September 15, 2010 in Europe; September 19, 2010 in North America and October 21, 2010 in Japan.[142]

Reliability

The PlayStation 3 illuminating the yellow light, indicating a non-specific failure

A 2009 study by SquareTrade, a warranty provider, found a two-year failure rate of 10% for PlayStation 3s.[143] According to Ars Technica, the number of PlayStation 3 consoles that have experienced failure is well within the normal failure rates in the consumer electronics industry.[144]

However, in September 2009, the BBC television programme Watchdog aired a report investigating the purported "yellow light of death" issue, which affects fewer than 0.5% of PlayStation 3s sold in the UK.[145] The yellow light indicates a non-specific hardware failure which renders the system unusable.

The program also noted that the PlayStation 3 has a one-year warranty (typical of most consumer electronics products). Out-of-warranty PlayStation 3 owners can pay Sony a set fee for a refurbished console.[146]

In response to the tone of the program, senior vice president and managing director, Ray Maguire issued a document criticizing the program and citing potential attempt to harm Sony and PlayStation brand and stating that the three PlayStation 3 systems the program tested is not evidence of a manufacturing defect.[147][148]

Leap year bug

On March 1, 2010 (UTC), many of the original (non-Slim) PlayStation 3 models worldwide were experiencing errors related to their internal system clock. The error had a multitude of symptoms. Initially, the main problem seemed to be the inability to connect to the PlayStation Network. However, the root cause of the problem was unrelated to the PlayStation Network, since even users who had never been online also had problems playing installed offline games (which queried the system timer as part of startup) and using system themes. At the same time many users noted that the console's clock had gone back to December 31, 1999. The event was nicknamed the ApocalyPS3, a play on the word Apocalypse.[149]

The error code displayed was typically 8001050F and affected users were unable to sign in, play games, use dynamic themes and view/sync trophies.[150] The problem only resided within the 1st through to the 3rd generation original PS3 units while the newer "Slim" models were unaffected due to different internal hardware for the clock.

Sony confirmed there was an error and stated “We are narrowing down the issue and continue to work to restore service to all.”[151] By March 2 (UTC), 2010, owners of the original PS3 could connect to PSN successfully and the clock no longer showed December 31, 1999.[152] Sony stated that the affected models incorrectly identified 2010 as a leap year, due to a bug in the BCD method of storing the date.[153][154] However, for some users, the hardware's operating system clock (updated from the internet mainly and not associated with the internal clock) needed to be updated manually or by resyncing it via the internet.

On June 29, 2010 Sony released PS3 system software update 3.40, which improved the functionality of the internal clock to properly account for leap years.[155]

Operating system

See also: Linux on the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 3 system software — Compatible media formats

System Software

Main article: PlayStation 3 system software

Sony has included the ability for the operating system, referred to as System Software, to be updated.[156] The updates can be acquired in several ways:

  • If the PlayStation 3 has an active Internet connection, updates may be downloaded directly from the PlayStation Network to the PS3 and subsequently installed. Systems with active Internet will automatically check online for software updates each time the console is started.
  • Using an external PC, a user may download the update from the official PlayStation website, transfer it to portable storage media and install it on the System.
  • Some game discs come with system software updates on the disc. This may be due to the game requiring the update in order to run. If so, the software may be installed from the disc.[156]

The original PlayStation 3 also included the ability to install other operating systems,[157] such as Linux.[158] This was not included in the newer slim models and was removed from all older PlayStation 3 consoles with the release of firmware update 3.21 in April 2010. The functionality is now only available to users of original consoles who choose not to update their system software beyond version 3.15.[159]

Graphical user interface

Main article: XrossMediaBar — PlayStation 3 XMB

The standard PlayStation 3 version of the XrossMediaBar (pronounced Cross Media Bar, or abbreviated XMB) includes nine categories of options. These are: Users, Settings, Photo, Music, Video, Game, Network, PlayStation Network and Friends (similar to the PlayStation Portable media bar). A tenth TV category is displayed between Music and Video if PlayTV or torne is installed or if the console meets certain criteria to access select catch-up television services. By default, the What's New section of PlayStation Network is displayed when the system starts up. The PS3 includes the ability to store various master and secondary user profiles, manage and explore photos with or without a musical slide show, play music and copy audio CD tracks to an attached data storage device, play movies and video files from the hard disk drive, an optical disc (Blu-ray Disc or DVD-Video) or an optional USB mass storage or Flash card, compatibility for a USB keyboard and mouse and a web browser supporting in/compatible file download function.[160] Additionally, UPnP media will appear in the respective audio/video/photo categories if a compatible media server or DLNA server is detected on the local network. The Friends menu allows mail with emoticon and attached picture features and video chat which requires an optional PlayStation Eye or EyeToy webcam.[161] The Network menu allows online shopping through the PlayStation Store and connectivity to the PlayStation Portable via Remote Play.[161]

Digital Rights Management

The PlayStation 3 console protects certain types of data and uses digital rights management to limit the data's use. Purchased games and content from the PlayStation Network store are governed by PlayStation's Network Digital Rights Management (NDRM). The NDRM allows users to access the data from up to 5 different PlayStation 3's that have been activated using a users PlayStation Network ID.[162] PlayStation 3 also limits the transfer of copy protected videos downloaded from its store to other machines and states that copy protected video "may not restore correctly" following certain actions after making a backup such as downloading a new copy protected movie.[163]

Photo Management

Photo Gallery main menu

Photo Gallery is an optional application to view, create and group photos from the PS3, which is installed separately from the system software at 105 MB. It was introduced in system software version 2.60 and provides a range of tools for sorting through and displaying the system's pictures. The key feature of this application is that it can organize photos into groups according to various criteria. Notable categorizations are colors, ages, or facial expressions of the people in the photos. Slideshows can be viewed with the application, along with music and playlists. The software was updated with the release of system software version 3.40 allowing users to upload and browse photos on Facebook and Picasa.[164]

PlayMemories

PlayMemories is an optional stereoscopic 3D (and also standard) photo viewing application,[165] which is installed from the PlayStation Store at 182 MB. The application is dedicated specifically to 3D photos and features the ability to zoom into 3D environments and change the angle and perspective of panoramas.[166] It requires system software 3.40 or higher; 3D photos; a 3D HDTV, and an HDMI cable for the 3D images to be viewed properly.

Video Editor and Uploader

A new application was released as part of system software version 3.40 which allows users to edit videos on the PlayStation 3 and upload them to the Internet. The software features basic video editing tools including the ability to cut videos and add music and captions. Videos can then be rendered and uploaded to video sharing websites such as Facebook and YouTube.[164]

VidZone

Main article: VidZone

VidZone is an online music video download service, accessible from the Music category on the XMB, which allows for free streaming of music videos. The VidZone catalogue encompasses over 1.5 million tracks, 25,000 music videos and 15,000 realtones,[167] including full access to catalogues from Sony BMG[168] and EMI.[169]

On June 11, 2009, VidZone’s service was extended to the PlayStation 3 video game system in Europe and Australia, allowing users to watch music videos for on their PS3 or streamed to their PSP via Remote Play.[170]

Catch Up TV

See also: Internet Television

Catch up TV services are IPTV streams of free to air broadcast programs specially formatted for display on the PS3. Where available select channels are accessible under a separate TV category on the XMB.

Mubi

Main article: Mubi (website)

A Mubi application for the PlayStation 3 was announced in May 2010. The service integrates elements of social networking with video streaming, allowing users to watch and discuss films with other users.[171]

PlayStation Portable connectivity

File:Mainichi issho psp.jpg
Playing a PlayStation 3 game through the PSP
Main articles: Remote Play and PlayStation Store (PC) for PSP

The PlayStation Portable can connect with the PlayStation 3 in many ways, including in-game connectivity. For example, Formula One Championship Edition, a racing game, was shown at E3 2006 using a PSP as a real-time rear-view mirror.[172] In addition, users are able to download original PlayStation format games from the PlayStation Store, transfer and play them on the PSP as well as the PS3 itself.[173][174] It is also possible to use the Remote Play feature to play these and some PlayStation Network games, remotely on the PSP over a network or internet connection.

Sony has also demonstrated the PSP playing back video content from the PlayStation 3 hard disk across an ad-hoc wireless network. This feature is referred to as Remote Play located under the browser icon on both the PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation Portable. Remote play has since expanded to allow remote access to the PS3 via PSP from any wireless access point in the world.[175]

Removal of "OtherOS" support

Among the changes made to the slim model was the removal of the OtherOS feature; the ability to install another operating system alongside the main system software. This was claimed to have been removed to focus on games and other content (new drivers etc. would have had to be written for the new hardware for use in the alternative OS), although it is possible that Sony discovered a vulnerability in the feature that would enable hacking of the console. Such a vulnerability was later found on the original (non-slim) versions by George Hotz, who created a hack that uses a combination of hardware modding and the OtherOS feature to take control of the hypervisor.[176]

As of firmware version 3.21, installation of other OSs is not supported on any model and the option has been removed from the XMB.[177] The reason given by Sony was 'disabling the “OtherOS” feature will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system.'[178] Sony's main Linux developer has been reassigned, so any PS3 Linux development would have to be on his own time.[179] This has caused some controversy as in effect Sony is removing officially advertised features and support from already sold products.[180] This controversy has also sparked several class action lawsuits aimed at making Sony return the feature and/or to get some sort of compensation.[181][182][183]

Firmware update 3.21 is mandatory for access to the PlayStation Network and as such many features such as online gaming and access to the PlayStation store are unavailable to those who choose not to update.

PlayStation Network

PlayStation Network logo
PlayStation Network logo
Main article: PlayStation Network

PlayStation Network is the unified online multiplayer gaming and digital media delivery service provided by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable, announced during the 2006 PlayStation Business Briefing meeting in Tokyo. The service is always connected,[184] free,[185] and includes multiplayer support.[2] The network enables online gaming, the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Home and other services. PlayStation Network uses real currency and PlayStation Network Cards as seen with the PlayStation Store and PlayStation Home.

PlayStation Plus

PlayStation Plus logo
PlayStation Plus logo
Main article: PlayStation Plus

PlayStation Plus (commonly abbreviated PS+ and occasionally referred to as PSN Plus) is a premium PlayStation Network subscription service that was officially unveiled at E3 2010 by Jack Tretton, President and CEO of SCEA. Rumors of such service had been in speculation since Kaz Hirai's announcement at TGS 2009 of a possible paid service for PSN but with the current PSN service still available. Launched alongside PS3 firmware 3.40 and PSP firmware 6.30 on June 29, 2010, the paid-for subscription service provides users with enhanced services on the PlayStation Network, on top of the current PSN service which is still available with all of its features. These enhancements include the ability to have demos, game and system software updates download automatically to the PlayStation 3. Subscribers also get early or exclusive access to some betas, game demos, premium downloadable content and other PlayStation Store items. North American users also get a free subscription to Qore. Users may choose to purchase either a one-year or a three-month subscription to PlayStation Plus.

PlayStation Store

Main article: PlayStation Store
File:PlayStationStore-Screenshot.png
The European PlayStation Store on the PlayStation 3.

The PlayStation Store is an online virtual market available to users of Sony's PlayStation 3 (PS3) and PlayStation Portable (PSP) game consoles via the PlayStation Network. The Store offers a range of downloadable content both for purchase and available free of charge. Available content includes full games, add-on content, playable demos, themes and game and movie trailers. The service is accessible through an icon on the XMB on the PS3 and PSP. The PS3 store can also be accessed on the PSP via a Remote Play connection to the PS3. The PSP store is also available via the PC application, Media Go. As of September 24, 2009, there have been over 600 million downloads from the PlayStation Store worldwide.[186]

The PlayStation Store is updated with new content each Tuesday in North America, and each Wednesday in PAL regions.[187] In May 2010 this was changed from Thursdays to allow PSP games to be released digitally, closer to the time they are released on UMD.[188]

What's New

File:Whats-new.png
The What's New screen

What's New was announced at Gamescom 2009 and was released on September 1, 2009, with PlayStation 3 system software 3.0.[189] The feature was to replace the existing [Information Board], which displayed news from the PlayStation website associated with the user's region. The concept was developed further into a major PlayStation Network feature, which interacts with the [Status Indicator] to display a ticker of all content, excluding recently played content (currently in North America and Japan only).

The system displays the What's New screen by default instead of the [Games] menu (or [Video] menu, if a movie was inserted) when starting up. What's New has four sections: "Our Pick", "Recently Played", latest information and new content available in PlayStation Store. There are four kinds of content the What's New screen displays and links to, on the sections. "Recently Played" displays the user's recently played games and online services only, whereas, the other sections can contain website links, links to play videos and access to selected sections of the PlayStation Store.

The PlayStation Store icons in the [Game] and [Video] section act similarly to the What's New screen, except that they only display and link to games and videos in the PlayStation Store, respectively.

PlayStation Home

Main article: PlayStation Home

PlayStation Home is a virtual community-based service for the PlayStation Network, announced during the 2007 Game Developers Conference.[190] Home allows users to create a custom avatar, which can be made to suit the user's liking.[191][192] Users can decorate their avatar's personal apartment ("HomeSpace") with default, bought, or won items.[191] Users can shop for new items to express themselves more through their avatars or HomeSpace.[192] Users interact and connect with friends and customise content in a virtual world.[193] Home also acts as a meeting place for users that want to play multiplayer games with others.[193]

A closed beta began in Europe from May 2007 and expanded to other territories soon after.[194] Home was delayed and expanded[195] several times before initially releasing.[196][197] The Open Beta test was started on December 11, 2008. Home is available directly from the PlayStation 3 XrossMediaBar. Membership is free and only requires a PSN account.[192][193]

Home is the host to avatars, a virtual economy, personal spaces and clubs. It features places to meet and interact, dedicated game spaces, developer spaces, company spaces and events. The service undergoes a weekly maintenance and frequent updates. Xi, a once notable feature in Home, is the world's first console-based Alternate Reality Game. Adventures, puzzles and spaces were set up to continuously puzzle those who participated in finding clues. The meaning of Xi and the mysterious character "Jess" were the objects of study in this game. At TGS 2009, Kazuo Hirai announced that Home has been downloaded by 8 million users.[198]

Life with PlayStation

The Life with PlayStation application showing weather forecasts and news headlines for New York City. Screenshot taken at approximately 8pm PST.
Main article: Life with PlayStation

Life with PlayStation, released on 18 September 2008,[199] shows virtual globe data along with the existing Folding@home functionality. The application also provides the user with access to three other information "channels", the Live Channel;[200] the World Heritage channel and the United Village channel.[199][201]

Games

Main article: List of PlayStation 3 games

The PlayStation 3 launched in North America with 14 titles, with another three being released before the end of 2006.[202] After the first week of sales it was confirmed that Resistance: Fall of Man from Insomniac Games was the top-selling launch game in North America.[203][204] The game was heavily praised by numerous video game websites, including GameSpot and IGN, both of whom awarded it their PlayStation 3 Game of the Year award for 2006.[205][206] Some titles missed the launch window and were delayed until early 2007, such as The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, F.E.A.R. and Sonic the Hedgehog. During the Japanese launch, Ridge Racer 7 was the top-selling game, while Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire also fared well in sales,[207] both of which were offerings from Namco Bandai. The PlayStation 3 launched in Europe with 24 titles, including ones that were not offered in the North American and Japanese launches, such as Formula One Championship Edition, MotorStorm and Virtua Fighter 5. Resistance: Fall of Man and MotorStorm were the most successful titles of 2007,[208][209] and both games subsequently received sequels in the form of Resistance 2 and MotorStorm: Pacific Rift.[210][211]

At E3 2007, Sony was able to show a number of their upcoming video games for the PlayStation 3, including Heavenly Sword, Lair, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Warhawk and Uncharted: Drake's Fortune; all of which were released in the third and fourth quarters of 2007. They also showed off a number of titles that were set for release in 2008 and 2009; most notably Killzone 2, Infamous, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, LittleBigPlanet and SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Confrontation.[212] A number of third-party exclusives were also shown, including the highly anticipated Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots,[213] alongside other high-profile third-party titles such as Grand Theft Auto 4, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Assassin's Creed, Devil May Cry 4 and Resident Evil 5. Two other important titles for the PlayStation 3, Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy Versus XIII, were shown at TGS 2007 in order to appease the Japanese market.[214][215]

Sony have since launched their budget range of PlayStation 3 titles, known as the Greatest Hits range in North America,[216] the Platinum range in Europe and Australia[217] and The Best range in Japan.[218] Among the titles available in the budget range include Resistance: Fall of Man, MotorStorm, Uncharted: Drakes Fortune, Rainbow Six: Vegas, Call Of Duty 3, Assassin's Creed and Ninja Gaiden Sigma. As of October 2009 Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Devil May Cry 4, Army of Two, Battlefield: Bad Company and Midnight Club: Los Angeles have also joined the list. When they are put on the "Greatest Hits" list the new unused copies retail for $30 USD and are re-shipped in a new red case.

As of June 30, 2010, there have been 315.3 million games sold for the PlayStation 3.[219]

Stereoscopic 3D

Main article: List of 3D PlayStation 3 games

In December 2008 the CTO of Blitz Games announced that they would bring stereoscopic 3D gaming and movie viewing to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 with their own technology.[220] This technology was first demonstrated publicly on the PS3 in January 2009 at the Consumer Electronics Show. Journalists were shown Wipeout HD and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue in 3D as a demonstration of how the technology might work if it is implemented in the future.[221] System software update 3.30 has prepared the PS3 for stereoscopic 3D gaming, while 3.50 prepared it for 3D films.[222] Firmware update 3.30 officially allows PS3 titles to be played in 3D, requiring a compatible TV for use.[223] While the game itself must be programmed to take advantage of the 3D technology, titles may be patched to add in the functionality retroactively. Titles with such patches include Wipeout HD, Pain and Super Stardust HD.[224]

Sales and production costs

See also: PlayStation 3 launch — Release data and pricing
Region Units sold First available
Canada 520,000 as of 1 August 2008[225] November 17, 2006
Europe
(May include UK & other PAL regions) 		16 million as of 17 August 2010[226] March 23, 2007
Japan 5 million as of 13 April 2010[227] November 11, 2006
United Kingdom 3 million as of 26 January 2010[228] March 23, 2007
United States nearly 12 million as of 14 April 2010[229] November 17, 2006
Worldwide 38.1 million as of 31 June 2010[230] November 11, 2006
(details)

The PlayStation 3's initial production cost is estimated to have been US$805.85 for the 20 GB model and US$840.35 for the 60 GB model.[231] However, they were priced at US$499 and US$599 respectively,[232] meaning that every unit was sold at an estimated loss of $250,[231] contributing to Sony's games division posting an operating loss of ¥232.3 billion (US$1.97 billion) in the fiscal year ending March 2007.[233] In April 2007, soon after these results were published, Ken Kutaragi, President of Sony Computer Entertainment, announced plans to retire. Various news agencies, including The Times[234] and The Wall Street Journal[235] reported that this was due to poor sales, whilst SCEI maintains that Kutaragi had been planning his retirement for six months prior to the announcement.[235]

In January 2008, Kaz Hirai, CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment, suggested that the console may start making a profit by early 2009, stating that, "the next fiscal year starts in April and if we can try to achieve that in the next fiscal year that would be a great thing" and that "[profitability] is not a definite commitment, but that is what I would like to try to shoot for".[236] However, market analysts Nikko Citigroup have predicted that the PlayStation 3 could be profitable by August 2008.[237] In a July 2008 interview, Hirai stated that his objective is for the PlayStation 3 to sell 150 million units by its ninth year, surpassing the PlayStation 2's sales of 140 million in its nine years on the market.[238] In January 2009 Sony announced that their gaming division was profitable in Q3 2008.[239]

Since the system's launch, production costs have been reduced significantly as a result of phasing out the Emotion Engine chip and falling hardware costs.[240][241] The cost of manufacturing Cell microprocessors has fallen dramatically as a result of moving to the 65 nm production process,[241][242] and Blu-ray Disc diodes have become cheaper to manufacture.[240][243] As of January 2008, each unit cost around $400 to manufacture;[244][245] by August 2009, Sony had reduced costs by a total of 70%, meaning it only costs Sony around $240 per unit.[246][247][248]

Reception

Original model

Early PlayStation 3 reviews soon after launch were critical of its high price and lack of quality launch games, but commended the system's hardware capabilities and potential.[249][250] However, after a series of price revisions, Blu-ray's victory over HD DVD,[251] and the release of several well received titles, the system received better reviews. IGN judged the PlayStation 3 to have the best game line-up of 2008, based on their review scores in comparison to those of the Wii and Xbox 360.[252]

The PS3 was given the number-eight spot on PC World magazine’s list of "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006," where it was criticized for being "Late, Expensive and Incompatible".[253] GamesRadar ranked the PS3 as the top item in a feature on game-related PR disasters, asking how Sony managed to "take one of the most anticipated game systems of all time and — within the space of a year — turn it into a hate object reviled by the entire internet", but added that despite its problems the system has "untapped potential".[254] Business Week summed up the general opinion by stating that it was "more impressed with what [the PlayStation 3] could do than with what it currently does".[255]

Developers have also found the machine difficult to program for. In 2007, Gabe Newell of Valve said "The PS3 is a total disaster on so many levels, I think it's really clear that Sony lost track of what customers and what developers wanted". He continued "I'd say, even at this late date, they should just cancel it and do a do over. Just say, 'This was a horrible disaster and we're sorry and we're going to stop selling this and stop trying to convince people to develop for it'".[256] Doug Lombardi VP of Marketing for Valve has since stated that they are interested in developing for the console and are looking to hire talented PS3 programmers for future projects.[257] He later restated Valve's position, "Until we have the ability to get a PS3 team together, until we find the people who want to come to Valve or who are at Valve who want to work on that, I don't really see us moving to that platform".[258] The next year, at Sony's 2010 E3 2010 press conference, Newell made a live appearance, recanting his previous statements in wake of the system's recent success, Sony's moves to make the system more developer friendly, as well as media and fan backlash for the comments, and to announce that Valve would be developing Portal 2 for the system. He had also claimed that the inclusion of Steamworks (Valve's system to automatically update their software independently) would help to make the PS3 version of Portal 2 the best console version on the market.

Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick has criticized the PS3’s high development costs and inferior attach rate and return to that of the Xbox 360 and Wii. He believes these factors are pushing developers away from working on the console. In an interview with The Times Kotick stated "I'm getting concerned about Sony; the PlayStation 3 is losing a bit of momentum and they don't make it easy for me to support the platform."[259] He continued, "It's expensive to develop for the console, and the Wii and the Xbox are just selling better. Games generate a better return on invested capital on the Xbox than on the PlayStation." Kotick also claimed that Activision Blizzard may stop supporting the system if the situation is not addressed. “[Sony has] to cut the [PS3’s retail] price, because if they don't, the attach rates are likely to slow. If we are being realistic, we might have to stop supporting Sony.”[260] Kotick received heavy criticism for the statement, notably from developer Bioware who questioned the wisdom of the threatened move, and referred to the statement as "silly."[261]

In an interview, Kazuo Hirai, Chairman of Sony Computer Entertainment argued for the choice of a complex architecture.[262]

Despite the initial negative press, several websites have given the system very good reviews. CNET United Kingdom praised the system saying, "the PS3 is a versatile and impressive piece of home-entertainment equipment that lives up to the hype [...] the PS3 is well worth its hefty price tag."[263] CNET awarded it a score of 8.8 out of 10 and voted it as its number one "must-have" gadget,[264] praising its robust graphical capabilities and stylish exterior design while criticizing its limited selection of available games.[265]

In addition, both Home Theater Magazine and Ultimate AV have given the system's Blu-ray playback very favorable reviews, stating that the quality of playback exceeds that of many current standalone Blu-ray Disc players.[266][267]

Hexus Gaming reviewed the PAL version and summed the review up by saying, "as the PlayStation 3 matures and developers start really pushing it, we’ll see the PlayStation 3 emerge as the console of choice for gaming."[268] At GDC 2007, Shiny Entertainment founder Dave Perry stated, "I think that Sony has made the best machine. It's the best piece of hardware, without question".[269] A second review of the PS3 by Ars Technica in June 2008 gave the console an overall mark of 9/10, while the original launch review marked only 6/10.[270] In September 2009, IGN named the PlayStation 3 the 15th best gaming console of all time, behind both of its competitors: the Wii (10th) and Xbox 360 (6th).[271]

Slim model and rebranding

The PlayStation 3 Slim has received extremely positive reviews as well as a boost in sales; less than 24 hours after its announcement the PS3 Slim took the number-one bestseller spot on Amazon.com in the video games section for fifteen consecutive days. It regained the number-one position again one day later.[272] The PS3 Slim also received praise from PC World giving it a 90 out of 100 praising its new repackaging and the new value it brings at a lower price as well as praising its quietness and the reduction in its power consumption. This is in stark contrast to the original PS3's launch in which it was given position number-eight on their "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006" list.[273]

CNET awarded the PS3 Slim four out of five stars praising its Blu-ray capabilities, 120 GB hard drive, free online gaming service and more affordable pricing point, but complained about the lack of backward compatibility for PlayStation 2 games.[274] TechRadar gave the PS3 Slim four and a half stars out of five praising its new smaller size and summed up its review stating "Over all, the PS3 Slim is a phenomenal piece of kit. It's amazing that something so small can do so much". They criticized the exterior design of the PS3 Slim, calling it "ugly" and described the build quality as "cheap" compared to the original PS3.[275]

References

  1. ^ "Entertainment on PS3 has a new look". Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2009-08-18. Retrieved 2009-09-01.
  2. ^ a b "PlayStation Direct.net". PlayStation Direct.net. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
  3. ^ "Sony confirms PS2 online plans". The Register. 2002-08-15. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  4. ^ "PlayStation.com - PLAYSTATION®3 Features: Multimedia". Sony Computer Entertainment America. Retrieved 2010-08-06.
  5. ^ De Leon, Al (2007-12-26). "PlayStation Blog — PS3 Tips — Remote Play and PlayStation Store". SCEA. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  6. ^ "PlayStation 3 Features - BluRay". SCEA. Retrieved 2010-03-04.
  7. ^ Lempel, Eric (2008-03-20). "Firmware version 2.20 bringing BD-Live to PS3". Sony Computer Entertainment America. Retrieved 2008-04-02.
  8. ^ a b "PS3 sells out at launch". BBC. 2006-11-11. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  9. ^ a b "Sony's PS3 makes U.S. debut". USA Today. 2006-11-17. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  10. ^ a b c d "SCEE official press release". Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. 2007-01-24. Archived from the original on January 19, 2008. Retrieved 2008-01-14. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  11. ^ a b c d "Sony Confirms PS3 Euro Launch Details". Next Gen. 2007-01-24. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  12. ^ a b c d e "IGN: E3 2006: The final word on PlayStation". IGN. 2006-05-24. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  13. ^ a b "Reeves: No PAL 20GB/80GB PS3 Plans". Interactive Entertainment Today. June 10, 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-31.
  14. ^ a b "Sony PlayStation 3 review". CNET. 2007-11-16. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  15. ^ a b c d e "Entertainment on PS3 has a new look". PlayStation UK. 2009-08-18. Retrieved 2009-08-18.
  16. ^ "PLAYSTATION is in capitals". Kotaku. 2006-08-10. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  17. ^ "E3 2005: PlayStation 3 - The ("boomerang") Controller". IGN Entertainment, Inc. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2010-02-07.
  18. ^ Sulic, Ivan (2005-05-16). "IGN: E3 2005: PS3 Official". IGN. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  19. ^ a b c "TGS 2005 booth round-up". Gamasutra. 2005-09-15. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  20. ^ a b "Sony E3 2005 press conference video". IGN. 2005-05-17. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  21. ^ Allen, Jason (2005-05-15). "E3 2005: Eyes-on the Final Fantasy VII Tech Demo". IGN. Retrieved 2006-07-24.
  22. ^ "PlayStation 3 announced for 2006". GameSpot. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  23. ^ "IGN's Official PlayStation 3 FAQ". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-03-26. pp. 1 of 4. Retrieved 2007-04-23.
  24. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 launch details". Arstechnica. 2006-05-09. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  25. ^ "PlayStation 3 Euro launch delayed". BBC. 2006-09-06. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  26. ^ "TGS 2006 - TGS 06: No US PS3 price drop; HDMI in 20 GB model". GameSpot. 2006-09-23. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  27. ^ a b Anoop Gantayat (2006-09-22). "TGS 2006: Price Drop For Japanese PS3". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-01-15.
  28. ^ "Sony announces 27 playable titles for the September Tokyo Game Show". IGN. 2006-08-16. Retrieved 2006-08-16.
  29. ^ "Japanese PS3 Sales Data Also Depressing". Media Create Co. via Kotaku. 2006-11-14. Retrieved 2008-10-24. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  30. ^ "1 Shot in Conn. PlayStation Waiting Line". CBS. 2006-11-17. Retrieved 2010-03-27.
  31. ^ "Camping PlayStation gamers robbed at gunpoint". KMTR. Retrieved 2006-11-17.
  32. ^ "Four People Shot While Waiting for PlayStation Console, Including 27 NEWSFIRST Reporter". WKYT News. 2006-11-16. Retrieved 2006-11-17.
  33. ^ "PlayStation3 Crowd Gets More Than It Bargained for in Tysons". WTOP News. 2006-11-17. Retrieved 2006-11-17.
  34. ^ Ellie Gibson (2006-09-06). "PS3 delayed in Europe News | PS3". Eurogamer. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  35. ^ "Official PS3 News Thread - Page 61 - NTSC-uk.com Forums". Ntsc-uk.domino.org. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  36. ^ "Sony's PS3 has record launch in Europe". Financial Times. March 28, 2007. Retrieved 2007-09-01.
  37. ^ "Singapore's PS3 launch party". CNET. 2007-03-08. Archived from the original on February 19, 2008. Retrieved 2008-01-14. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  38. ^ "PlayStation 3 (80 GB) Korean". SCEI. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  39. ^ "Sony Announces Slim PS3 - It Lives This September!". Kotaku. 2009-08-18. Retrieved 2009-08-18.
  40. ^ the console's finish
  41. ^ the console
  42. ^ "Kutaragi "insisted" on Spider-Man font for PS3". computerandvideogames.com. 2007-03-29. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  43. ^ a b c d "PlayStation 3 Technical Specifications". SCEA. Archived from the original on January 13, 2008. Retrieved 2008-01-14. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  44. ^ "PS3 60 GB review". CNET. 2006-11-13. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  45. ^ a b c d e f g h "Sony Computer Entertainment Japan to introduce PlayStation®3 (PS3®) with 160GB and 320GB hard disk drive, available from July 29, 2010 at a Recommended Retail Price of 29,980 yen and 34,980 yen respectively". Sony. 2010-07-06. Retrieved 2010-07-06.
  46. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "White PS3 Slim out in Japan this month". Eurogamer. 2010-07-06. {{cite web}}: Text "accessdate-2010-07-06" ignored (help)
  47. ^ Rubenstein, Jeff (2007-12-28). "PlayStation Blog — Upgrading the PS3's hard drive". Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  48. ^ "Cell Introduction" (PDF). IBM. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  49. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 Cell Processor". North Carolina State University. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  50. ^ a b Martin Linklater. "Optimizing Cell Code". Game Developer Magazine, April 2007. pp. 15–18. To increase fabrication yelds, Sony ships PlayStation 3 Cell processors with only seven working SPEs. And from those seven, one SPE will be used by the operating system for various tasks, This leaves six SPEs for game programmer to use.
  51. ^ a b "PS3 Specs". IGN. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  52. ^ quick reference manual for 20 GB US PlayStation 3 page 14
  53. ^ "Building Supercomputer Using PlayStation 3". Console Watcher.com. 2006-08-28. Retrieved 2006-08-28.
  54. ^ "Fixstars: Products". Fixstars Solutions. Retrieved 2010-02-04. {{cite web}}: Text "Yellow Dog Linux Get YDL" ignored (help)
  55. ^ "RapidMind and Terra Soft partner to unleash PlayStation 3 for Linux". RapidMind. Archived from the original on 2007-08-22.
  56. ^ "Engineer Creates First Academic PlayStation 3 Computing Cluster". PhysOrg.com.
  57. ^ "NC State Engineer Creates First Academic PlayStation 3 Computing Cluster". College of Engineering, North Carolina State University.
  58. ^ "Sony PS3 Cluster (IBM Cell BE)". Frank Mueller, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, North Carolina State University.
  59. ^ "Sony still subsidizing US military supercomputer efforts". Ars Technica. Retrieved 2009-12-18.
  60. ^ "Folding@home". Sony Computer Entertainment. Retrieved 2007-03-18.
  61. ^ "PlayStation 3 used to hack SSL". Engadget. Retrieved 2009-10-31.
  62. ^ a b "PlayStation 3 - Things to Know — PlayStation 3 model comparison". SCEA. Archived from the original on 2008-02-13. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  63. ^ "Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 Bundle Announced | Kotaku Australia". Kotaku.com.au. Retrieved 2008-10-27.
  64. ^ "Metal Gear Solid 4: The PS3 Bundle: The Cardboard Box". Kotaku.com. Retrieved 2008-10-27.
  65. ^ "PS3 80GB bundle contents". SCEA. Retrieved 2008-10-24.
  66. ^ "Compare PLAYSTATION3 Systems". SCEA. Retrieved 2009-08-14.
  67. ^ a b Boyes, Emma (2007-10-05). "UK PS3 drops price, 40GB finally official". GameSpot. CNET. Retrieved 2007-10-06.
  68. ^ a b Plunkett, Luke. "Customer Service: Sony Could Run BC on 40GB PS3s. They Just Don't Want To". Retrieved 2007-10-09.
  69. ^ a b c d e "Can I play PlayStation game console and PlayStation2 computer entertainment system format software titles on the PLAYSTATION3 computer entertainment system?". Sony. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  70. ^ "PS3's Backwards Compatibility Detailed - Video Game News, Video Game Coverage, Video Game Updates, PC Game News, PC Game Coverage". GameDaily. 2006-11-21. Retrieved 2009-08-07.
  71. ^ "PlayStation 3 Safety & Support manual" (PDF). SCEI. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  72. ^ a b c d e "About PlayStation3 - Technical Specifications". PlayStation.com. Archived from the original on 2008-02-13. Retrieved 2008-02-25.
  73. ^ "South Korean PS3". gamesindustry.biz. 2007-05-21. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  74. ^ Graft, Kris. "PS2 Software Emulation Unlikely for 40GB PS3". Nex Gen. Retrieved 2010-03-04.
  75. ^ a b "PS3 SACD FAQ". ps3sacd.com. Retrieved 2009-08-22.
  76. ^ a b "New PLAYSTATION3 Model to Take Holiday Season by Storm". Sony Computer Entertainment. October 5, 2007. Retrieved 2007-10-05.
  77. ^ a b Tretton, Jack (speaker) (2008-07-15). E3 2008: Sony Press Conference (Part 3). Sony Computer Entertainment America (via IGN). Event occurs at 17:38. Retrieved 2008-07-16.
  78. ^ Ellie Gibson (2006-05-16). "20 GB PlayStation 3 will be upgradeable, says Sony". gamesindustry.biz. Retrieved 2006-05-16.
  79. ^ Conrad Quilty Harper (2007-10-30). "40GB PS3 features 65nm chips, lower power consumption (30% less)". Engadget. Retrieved 2007-10-31.
  80. ^ Anoop Gantayat (2007-11-08). "New PS3 Uses 65nm Process". ign. Retrieved 2007-11-10.
  81. ^ Jon Stokes (2008-02-07). "IBM shrinks Cell to 45nm". Ars Technica. Retrieved 2009-01-07.
  82. ^ a b c Paul Miller (2009-08-18). "Sony unveils slimmer PS3: $300, lands in September (updated!)". Engadget. Retrieved 2009-08-18.
  83. ^ "PlayStation 3 Slim review". Engadget.com. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  84. ^ "Sony answers our questions about the new PlayStation 3". Ars Technica. August 18, 2009. Retrieved August 19, 2009.
  85. ^ "Sony PS3 upgraded with cooler 40-nm RSX graphics chip, profits await (updated)". Engadget. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  86. ^ a b "Entertainment on PS3 has a new look". PlayStation AU. 2009-08-18. Retrieved 2009-08-24.
  87. ^ David Carnoy (2009-08-18). "Sony officially announces $299 PS3 Slim". cnet. Retrieved 2009-08-18.
  88. ^ Stephen Totilo (2009-08-21). "Sony, GameStop Indicate PS3 Slim Available In U.S. Before September". Kotaku. Retrieved 2009-08-22.
  89. ^ Ross Miller (2009-08-25). "PS3 Slim popping up all over the US (update: it's officially on sale)". Engadget. Retrieved 2009-08-26.
  90. ^ "New PS3 has sold over one million". Eurogamer. Retrieved 2009-11-07.
  91. ^ CJPC (2009-08-18). "PS3 Slim CECH-2000B 250GB Model Uncovered at FCC Site". ps3news. Retrieved 2009-08-22.
  92. ^ "First Look At The Final Fantasy XIII PlayStation 3". Kotaku. 2009-09-24. Retrieved 2009-09-24.
  93. ^ a b c d e f "250GB PS3 Slim bundles coming to Australia". qj.net. 2009-09-24. Retrieved 2009-09-25.
  94. ^ a b c d e f Frucci, Adam (2010-08-17). "New, Higher-Capacity PS3 Models Coming This Fall". Gizmodo, Gawker Media. Retrieved 2010-08-18.
  95. ^ a b c d e f g h "Sony PlayStation Move Bundle Arrives in September". mashable.com. 2010-08-18. Retrieved 2010-08-19.
  96. ^ "Sony Scraps Sale of Priciest PlayStation 3s in Japan". 2008-01-10. Retrieved 2008-01-10.
  97. ^ "Sony's Euro PS3 will play fewer older games". IDG Network. Retrieved 2009-11-07.
  98. ^ "BBC Confirms European PS3 Bundle Deal". Kotaku. 2007-07-12. Retrieved 2010-05-20.
  99. ^ Tanaka, John (2008-02-04). "New PS3 colour in Japan". IGN. Retrieved 2008-02-05.
  100. ^ GamingBits (2008-05-19). "Metal Gear Solid 4 Limited Edition PLAYSTATION3 Bundle". Gamingbits.com. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  101. ^ a b Randolph Ramsay and Luke Anderson (2008-07-16). "E3 08: 80GB PS3 coming to Europe, Australia on August 27". GameSpot. Retrieved 2008-07-17.
  102. ^ Jem Alexander (2008-04-23). "GTA IV bundle confirmed for Europe". Joystiq. Retrieved 2010-04-28.
  103. ^ "PS3 80GB Console with LittleBigPlanet (PlayStation 3) at Gameplay - FREE UK Delivery". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  104. ^ "Sony confirms inFamous PS3 bundle". Eurogamer.
  105. ^ "PS3 80 GB Console with Infamous (PlayStation 3) at Gameplay - FREE UK Delivery". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  106. ^ a b "Limited "Dragon" PlayStation 3 Console Is For Japanese Eyes Only". Kotaku. 2009-01-06. Retrieved 2010-04-29.
  107. ^ "Sony Playstation 3 80GB Console with I Am Legend Blu-ray (PlayStation 3) at Gameplay - FREE UK Delivery". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  108. ^ "Sony Playstation 3 80GB with Terminator + Blue Ray Pack (PlayStation 3) at Gameplay - FREE UK Delivery". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  109. ^ "PS3 80GB Console with 300 Blu-ray (PlayStation 3) at Gameplay - FREE UK Delivery". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  110. ^ "company press release". SCEE. 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2008-08-20. [dead link]
  111. ^ "Live from Leipzig: North American Hardware Announcements". SCEA. 2008-08-20. Retrieved 2008-08-20.
  112. ^ a b North, Dale (January 19, 2009). "Final Fantasy VII Advent Children PS3 bundle is real". Destructoid. Retrieved September 10, 2010.
  113. ^ Cite error: The named reference HDbitstream was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  114. ^ Sony Computer Entertainment Europe - Virtual Press Office[dead link]
  115. ^ Ellie Gibson (2010-01-06). "Michael Jackson PS3 bundle on the way PlayStation 3 News - Page 1". Eurogamer.net. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  116. ^ a b "TGS 09: Motion Controller Details, Other New Info". PlayStation Blog Europe. September 24, 2009. Retrieved October 2, 2009.
  117. ^ "NEW 250GB PlayStation 3 System Available November 3 – PlayStation.Blog". Blog.us.playstation.com. 2009-10-15. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  118. ^ a b "PS3 250GB bundles priced, detailed". Eurogamer. 2009-09-09. Retrieved 2010-05-20.
  119. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 Slim Console (250GB Model) with Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PS3): Amazon.co.uk: PC & Video Games". Amazon.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  120. ^ Nick Broughall (2009-11-24). "PS3 PlayTV Bundle: 250GB PS3 With PlayTV For $599". Gizmodo. Retrieved 2010-04-28.
  121. ^ "Tekken 6 250GB PS3 bundle skips over UK". Neoseeker.com. 2009-10-07. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  122. ^ "Rumour: Tekken 6 Getting A PS3 Slim Bundle Too". PushSquare.com. 2009-10-07. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  123. ^ "PS3 News: Tekken 250GB PS3 bundle not for UK". ComputerAndVideoGames.com. 2009-10-06. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  124. ^ "PS3 250GB Blue Ray Bundle including Wolverine and Dark Knight". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. 2009-09-01. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  125. ^ "Sony Playstation 3 250GB with Assassins Creed 2". Shop.gameplay.co.uk. 2009-09-01. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  126. ^ "PS3 250GB Slim Console with God of War III". game4u.com. Retrieved 2010-05-20.
  127. ^ "Sony Playstation 3 250Gb PS3 Slim with ModNation Racers". game.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-06-26.[dead link]
  128. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 Slim + ModNation Racers". lefdal.com. Retrieved 2010-06-26.
  129. ^ "White PS3 Slim with 160GB HDD hits Japan July 29th, new 320GB HDD option". Engadget. 2010-07-06. {{cite web}}: Text "accessdate-2010-07-06" ignored (help)
  130. ^ a b Ashcraft, Brian (2010-08-18). "Gran Turismo 5 Gets Blue PS3 In Japan". Kotaku, Gawker Media. Retrieved 2010-08-18.
  131. ^ Gilbert, Ben (September 16, 2010). "White 320GB PS3 coming to Japan October 21". Joystiq. Retrieved September 16, 2010.
  132. ^ "PlayStation 3 40GB model official specifications". SCEI. Archived from the original on 2008-01-23. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  133. ^ "PLAYSTATION3 HDD 20 GB EQUIPPED WITH HDMI AS STANDARD" (PDF) (Press release). Sony Computer Entertainment. 2006-09-22. Retrieved 2007-05-24.
  134. ^ "Yakuza 3 PS3 Special Edition unveiled". Quick Jump Network (QJ.net). 2009-01-06. Retrieved 2010-04-29.
  135. ^ "PlayStation 3 Accessories". SCEA. Archived from the original on 2008-01-13. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  136. ^ "PlayTV on PlayStation 3 explained". Sony Computer Entertainment Europe via Kotaku. August 22, 2007. Retrieved 2008-10-14. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  137. ^ "DualShock 3 Wireless Controller With Rumble Feature To Be Introduced For PlayStation 3". Sony Computer Entertainment. 2007-09-20. Retrieved 2007-09-20.
  138. ^ "TGS '07: Spot On — The Dual Shock 3". GameSpot. 2007-09-19. Retrieved 2007-09-20.
  139. ^ "DualShock 3 will launch on November 11 in Japan". Kotaku. 2007-10-08. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  140. ^ "Sony Announces New 80GB PS3 Bundle, DualShock 3, Red PSP". Daily Tech. 2008-02-26. Retrieved 2008-03-17.
  141. ^ "TGS 07: DualShock 3 announced". IGN. 2007-09-19. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  142. ^ "PlayStation Move motion controller to hit worldwide market starting this September". Sony Computer Entertainment. 2010-06-16. Retrieved 2010-06-30.
  143. ^ Sands A, Tseng V. (2009). Game Console Failure Rates: Wii 9 times more reliable than Xbox 360, 4 times more than PS3. SquareTrade.
  144. ^ Kuchera, Ben (2008-02-14). "Xbox 360 failure rates worse than most consumer electronics". Arstechnica.com. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  145. ^ Rob Unsworth (2009-09-17). "BBC "Watchdog" report on "Yellow Light of Death"". BBC. Retrieved 2010-05-31. Of all PS3's sold in the UK to date, fewer than one half of one percent of units have been reported as failing in circumstances where the yellow indicator is illuminated.
  146. ^ Sony PlayStation 3 and the "yellow light of death" Watchdog, September 17, 2009
  147. ^ Sony tackles BBC over 'PS3 failure' report Gameindustry.biz, September 17, 2009
  148. ^ Owen Good (2009-09-17). "Sony Pre-Emptively Blasts BBC Report on PS3 Failures". Kotaku. Retrieved 2010-04-11.
  149. ^ Previous post Next post. "ApocalyPS3: Buggy Clock Drives PlayStation 3 Haywire | GameLife". Wired.com. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  150. ^ Sony PS3 network glitch affects thousands The Daily Telegraph, March 1, 2010
  151. ^ "PlayStation Network Status Update – PlayStation.Blog.Europe". Blog.eu.playstation.com. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  152. ^ "PS3 issues apparently resolved, game on". Engadget. Retrieved 2010-08-25.
  153. ^ Jeff Bakalar (2010-03-01). "PS3 console errors fixed, leap year bug to blame". CNET.com. Retrieved 2010-03-02.
  154. ^ Hiroko Tabuchi (2010-03-01). "Error Blocked PlayStation 3 From Using Its Network". New York Times. Retrieved 2010-03-02.
  155. ^ "PlayStation 3 Features Software Updates". Sony. Retrieved 2010-09-03.
  156. ^ a b "PlayStation.com - PLAYSTATION®3 - Features - SystemUpdate". SCEA. Retrieved 2010-02-04.[dead link]
  157. ^ "Install Other OS". PlayStation 3 User's Guide. Sony Computer Entertainment. 2007. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  158. ^ Boyes, Emma (2006-11-27). "Yellow Dog Linux launches for PS3". GameSpot. Retrieved 2006-11-30.
  159. ^ Andrew Yoon (2010-03-29). "Linux support dropped from PS3 firmware 3.21". Joystiq. Retrieved 2010-03-29.
  160. ^ "PlayStation 3 Features Connectivity". Sony. Retrieved 2010-09-03.
  161. ^ a b "About the PlayStation Network". Sony. Archived from the original on 2008-01-12. Retrieved 2008-01-13.
  162. ^ "PlayStation Knowledge Center". Sony. Retrieved 2010-07-06.
  163. ^ "PlayStation Knowledge Center". Sony. Retrieved 2010-07-06.
  164. ^ a b "PS3 System Software Update – 3.40". Retrieved 2010-06-28.
  165. ^ "What is the function of PlayMemories application?". Retrieved September 22, 2010.
  166. ^ "Sony launches PlayMemories app for 3D photos". Retrieved September 22, 2010.
  167. ^ "Ericsson delivers complete and secure music billing for VidZone Digital Media". Ericsson. 2007-06-27. Retrieved 2009-08-14.[dead link]
  168. ^ "VidZone Digital Media inks deal with Sony BMG". Brand Republic. 2007-06-06. Archived from the original on 2007-09-13. Retrieved 2008-08-22.
  169. ^ "VidZone Digital Media and EMI Music ink major deal". EMI Group. 2008-06-27. Archived from the original on 2008-02-06. Retrieved 2008-08-22.
  170. ^ Kietzmann, Ludwig (2008-08-20). "GC 2008: PS3 getting free 'VidZone' music service in Europe". Joystiq. Retrieved 2008-08-21.
  171. ^ "PS3 + MUBI + YOU". SCEE.
  172. ^ Haynes, Jeff (2006-05-08). "E3 2006: Formula One 06 Resurfaces". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  173. ^ Deleon, Nicholas (2006-12-07). "Downloadable PS1 Games Hit The PSP (Provided You Have a PS3)". Gizmodo. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  174. ^ Kennedy, Sam (2006-10-20). "Phil Harrison Talks Downloadable PS1 Games on PS3". 1up.com. Retrieved 2007-04-03.
  175. ^ Nix, Marc (2006-10-20). "PSP and PS3 Play Together". IGN PSP. Retrieved 2007-01-21.
  176. ^ "No otheros feature on new PS3 slim ?". 2009-09-22. Retrieved 2009-09-22.
  177. ^ "PSA: PS3 Firmware Update 3.21 available now". 2010-04-01. Retrieved 2010-04-01.
  178. ^ "PS3 Firmware (v3.21) Update". 2010-03-28. Retrieved 2010-03-28.
  179. ^ "Sony reassigned their main Linux developer, so Linux developer will do Linux-ps3 development on his own time". 2010-03-30. Retrieved 2010-03-30.
  180. ^ "Sony Steals Feature From Your PlayStation 3". 2010-03-30. Retrieved 2010-03-30.
  181. ^ Oli Welsh (2010-05-11). "Sony hit by two more Other OS lawsuits". Eurogamer. Retrieved 2010-05-11.
  182. ^ "Man Files class action lawsuit over Other OS support removal". Joystiq date = 2010-04-30. {{cite web}}: Missing pipe in: |publisher= (help)
  183. ^ "PlayStation 3 Owner files class action lawsuit against Sony for dropping 'Other OS'". Kotaku. 2010-04-29.
  184. ^ "PlayStation 3 announced for 2006". GameSpot. 2005-05-16. Retrieved 2007-04-04.
  185. ^ "Official PlayStation Website — PlayStation Network". SCEA. Archived from the original on 2008-03-15. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  186. ^ "TGS 2009: Keynote Address". IGN.
  187. ^ "PSN Thursday no more: say hello to PSN Tuesday and Wednesday".
  188. ^ "PSN Store Day Move Not Due To 360".
  189. ^ "PlayStation Games & Media News: – Entertainment on PS3 has a new look". SCEE.
  190. ^ "GDC: Phil Harrison's Keynote Speech". Games Industry. May 16, 2007.
  191. ^ a b "PlayStation Home unveiled". Engadget. 2007-03-07. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  192. ^ a b c "GDC 2007 Sony keynote speech". Engadget. 2007-03-08. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  193. ^ a b c "PlayStation Home, the free virtual world of PlayStation 3". JoyStiq. 2007-03-07. Retrieved 2008-01-15.
  194. ^ "IGN: Europeans Go Home". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-05-01. Retrieved 2007-05-02.
  195. ^ "PlayStation Home Beta Extended Today".
  196. ^ "Virtual Worlds News: Sony Home Delayed to Spring 2008". Virtual Worlds News. September 20, 2007. Retrieved 2009-07-01.
  197. ^ "PlayStation Home not open till fall of 08". Platform Nation. 22 April 2007.
  198. ^ "TGS 09: Sony Keynote Liveblog - (the third 7:01)". 1up.com.
  199. ^ a b "Life with PlayStation". PlayStation.com. September 18, 2009. Retrieved October 7, 2009.
  200. ^ "Life With PlayStation out now". Kotaku.
  201. ^ "United Village". Retrieved October 1, 2009.
  202. ^ "IGN's Official PlayStation 3 FAQ". IGN PlayStation 3. 2007-03-26. pp. 3 of 4. Retrieved 2007-05-02.
  203. ^ "Gamestop Corp. Q3 2006 Earnings Conference Call Summary". Gamestop Corporation via alacrastore.com. 2006-11-21. Retrieved 2009-01-08. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  204. ^ "Saling The World: In Search of Zelda - week of November 24, 2006". Gamasutra. 2006-11-24. Retrieved 2009-01-08.[dead link]
  205. ^ GameSpot Staff (2006-12-21). "Best Games and Worst Games of 2006 at GameSpot — Best PlayStation 3 Game". GameSpot. Retrieved 2007-04-30.
  206. ^ IGN Staff (2006-12-21). "IGN.com presents The Best of 2006 - PlayStation 3: Game of the Year". IGN.com. Retrieved 2007-04-30.
  207. ^ Gantayat, Anoop (2006-11-13). "Sony Number Two in Japan". IGN. Retrieved 2009-01-08.
  208. ^ "Cathedral row over video game". BBC. 2007-06-09. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  209. ^ "Motorstorm completes hat-trick". Eurogamer. 2007-04-05. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
  210. ^ Evolution Studios (2007). "MotorStorm 2 sequel confirmed for PS3, in development at Evolution Studios". [1]. Retrieved 2007-09-06. {{cite web}}: External link in |work= (help)
  211. ^ Insomniac Games (2007). "Full Moon Show Podcast". [2]. Archived from the original on 2007-09-27. Retrieved 2007-11-12. {{cite web}}: External link in |work= (help)
  212. ^ "Best of E3 2007 Winners". Kotaku. July 31, 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-12.
  213. ^ Hatfield, Daemon (2007-07-11). "Haze now Fully PS3 Exclusive, 360 & PC Dropped". Gamespot. Retrieved 2007-08-11.
  214. ^ "E308:No Changes on Final Fantasy Versus XIII Being PS3 Exclusive". Kotaku. 2008-07-14. Retrieved 2008-11-29.
  215. ^ Gibson, Ellie (2007-07-11). "E3: Square Enix's John Yamamoto". GamesIndustry.biz. Retrieved 2007-08-11.
  216. ^ "PS3 Greatest Hits Launch Today". Blog.us.playstation.com. 2008-07-28. Retrieved 2009-08-15.
  217. ^ "PS3 Platinum range in UK from August". Computerandvideogames.com. 2008-07-17. Archived from the original on 2008-07-17. Retrieved 2009-08-15.
  218. ^ "PlayStation 3 the best". Jp.playstation.com. Retrieved 2009-08-15.
  219. ^ "PLAYSTATION3 Worldwide Software Unit Sales". Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Retrieved 2010-05-23.
  220. ^ "Blitz Games Introduces True Stereoscopic 3D For Xbox 360 And PS3". Cinemablend.com. 2008-12-01. Retrieved 2009-08-15.
  221. ^ "Sony teases with high-quality PS3 HD". Ars Technica. 2009-01-08.
  222. ^ "PS3 3.30 System Software Update". PlayStation.Blog. April 21, 2010.
  223. ^ "Sony dates PS3 3D update". MCV. June 1, 2010.
  224. ^ by JC Fletcher on May 31st 2010 3:15PM (2010-05-31). "First PS3 3D game updates available in Japan on June 10". Joystiq. Retrieved 2010-08-25.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  225. ^ Neil Davidson (2008-08-26). "Nintendo Wii surpasses mark of one million consoles sold in Canada". The Canadian Press. Yahoo!. {{cite news}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  226. ^ Shaun McInnis (2010-08-17). "New Ratchet and Clank, Resistance headline Sony conference". GameSpot. Retrieved 2010-08-17.
  227. ^ "How Many PS3s Have Been Sold In Japan?". Famitsu. Kotaku. 2010-04-13. Retrieved 2009-01-05.
  228. ^ Richard Mitchell (2010-01-25). "UK PS3 sales surpass 3 million". Joystiq. Retrieved 2010-02-04.
  229. ^ Ben Reeves (2010-04-13). "Yakuza 4 One Of Japan's Best Selling PS3 Games". Game Informer. Retrieved 2010-04-14.
  230. ^ Cite error: The named reference WorldSales was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  231. ^ a b Goldstein, Hilary (2006-11-16). "Sony Losing Almost $250 per Console". IGN PlayStation 3. Retrieved 2006-11-17.
  232. ^ Brendan Sinclair (2006-05-09). "E3 06: PS3 launches 11/17--$499 for 20 GB, $599 for 60 GB". Gamespot. Retrieved 2007-07-06.
  233. ^ "PS3 launch hits Sony profits". GamesIndustry.biz. May 16, 2007. Retrieved 2007-08-31.
  234. ^ Sabbagh, Dan; Kennedy, Siobhan (2007-04-27). "PlayStation boss pays the price of weak sales". London: Times Online. Retrieved 2007-04-27. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  235. ^ a b Christopher Grant (2007-04-26). "Sony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire". Joystiq. Retrieved 2007-07-03.
  236. ^ "Sony's Hirai eyes PS3 profit as costs decline". Reuters. 2008-01-07. Retrieved 2008-04-22.
  237. ^ "PS3 profitable by August, say Nikko Citigroup analysts". GamesIndustry.biz. 2008-04-21. Retrieved 2008-04-22.
  238. ^ Chris Nuttall (2008-07-20). "Sony sets 150m sales target for PS3". Financial Times. Retrieved 2008-08-02.
  239. ^ nofi (2009-01-29). "Sony's Game Division In Profit". TheSixthAxis. Retrieved 2009-03-03.
  240. ^ a b "Sony cuts PS3 production costs in half". psu.com. 2008-01-11. Retrieved 2008-01-22.
  241. ^ a b "PlayStation 3 manufacturing costs to go down, way down". ps3fanboy.com. 2007-02-08. Retrieved 2007-07-15.
  242. ^ "IBM Shrinks Cell Broadband Engine to 65nm Process". dailytech.com. 2007-03-13. Retrieved 2007-07-15.
  243. ^ "PlayStation 3 Production Costs Drop". gameinformer.com. 2007-05-07. Archived from the original on 2007-05-09. Retrieved 2007-07-15.
  244. ^ "Sony's Blu-Ray Breakthrough". BusinessWeek. 2008-01-08. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  245. ^ "PS3 production costs halved, says analyst". www.gamesindustry.biz. 2008-01-14. Retrieved 2008-01-14.
  246. ^ "PS3 70 percent cheaper to make". www.gamersyndrome.com. 2009-08-01. Retrieved 2009-08-09.
  247. ^ Kat Bailey (2009-08-22). "PlayStation 3 Production Costs Slashed 70 Percent". 1up. Retrieved 2009-07-31.
  248. ^ Brian Ashcraft (2009-08-22). "Sony: PS3 Manufacturing Costs Down 70 Percent". Kotaku. Retrieved 2009-07-31. [dead link]
  249. ^ Riyad Emeran (2007-03-23). "Sony PlayStation 3". Trustedreviews.com. Retrieved 2007-07-10.
  250. ^ Danny Allen (2007-03-01). "First review: PlayStation 3". PC Advisor. Retrieved 2007-07-10.
  251. ^ "Toshiba Announces Discontinuation of HD DVD Businesses" (Press release). Toshiba. 2008-02-19. Retrieved 2008-08-31.
  252. ^ Shea, Cam. "IGN: Aussie Console Showdown 08: PS3 vs. Wii vs. 360". Ps3.ign.com. Retrieved 2009-08-07.
  253. ^ Tynan, Dan (2006-12-20). "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006". PC World. Retrieved 2007-02-03.
  254. ^ Reparaz, Mikel (2007-03-21). "The Top 7... PR disasters". GamesRadar. Retrieved 2007-03-21.
  255. ^ Cliff Edwards (2006-11-16). "PS3: Soon to Be a Great System". Business Week. Retrieved 2007-07-10.
  256. ^ Bishop, Stuart (2007-01-15). "Valve: PS3 a "total disaster on so many levels"". computerandvideogames.com. Retrieved 2007-01-15.
  257. ^ "Valve open to work with PS3 development". Qj.net. "2009-07-05". {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  258. ^ Guttridge, Luke (2009-07-03). "Valve dodge PS3 development". play.tm. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  259. ^ Sabbagh, Dan (2009-06-19). "Sony should beware — Activision chief is not simply playing games". London: timesonline.co.uk. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  260. ^ Crossley, Rob (2009-06-19). "Kotick slams PS3 for 'high' dev costs". develop-online. Retrieved 2009-07-13.
  261. ^ "BioWare: Activision PS3 comment "silly and biased towards what is popular."".
  262. ^ "Hirai: We're the "official" industry leader". Eurogamer. 2009-01-20. Retrieved 2009-10-31. We don't provide the easy to program for console that [developers] want, because easy to program for means that anybody will be able to take advantage of pretty much what the hardware can do, so then the question is what do you do for the rest of the nine-and-a-half years?
  263. ^ Carnoy, Dave (2007). "PS3 Reviewed". CNet.co.uk. Archived from the original on 2007-03-28. Retrieved 2007-04-21. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  264. ^ CNET Staff (2006-11-21). "Top 10 Must-haves". CNET. Retrieved 2007-02-22.
  265. ^ Carnoy, David (2006-11-14). "Sony PlayStation 3 (60 GB) Reviews". CNET. Retrieved 2007-02-03.
  266. ^ Chiarella, Chris (2006). "Sony PlayStation 3". Home Theater Magazine. Primedia Magazines, Inc. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  267. ^ Buettner, Shane C. (2006). "PlayStation3 Blu-ray Disc Player". Primedia Magazines, Inc. pp. 4 of 6. Retrieved 2007-02-22. {{cite web}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help); Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)[dead link]
  268. ^ Haywood, Nick (2007-03-23). "Review : Sony PlayStation 3". HEXUS.gaming. pp. 6 of 6. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  269. ^ Gibson, Ellie (2007-03-07). "GDC: What's Next for PS3?". GamesIndustry.biz. Retrieved 2007-04-25.
  270. ^ Kuchera, Ben (2008-06-04). "They say it got smart: a 2008 review of the PS3". Ars Technica. Retrieved 2008-06-10.
  271. ^ "PlayStation 3 is number 15". IGN Entertainment. Retrieved 15-Oct-2009. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help)
  272. ^ "PS3 Slim gets back Bestseller top spot on Amazon". qj.net. September 1, 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2009.
  273. ^ "Priced right, Sony's slim-line PlayStation 3 (120GB) bundles the top-notch features of the earlier PlayStation 3 into a smarter, sleeker package". PC World. September 2, 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2009.
  274. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 Slim - 120GB Review". CNET. August 19, 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2009.
  275. ^ "Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 120GB review". TechRadar. September 1, 2009. Retrieved 3 September 2009.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to PlayStation 3.

Official websites

Auxiliary sites by Sony

Directories

Template:Link GA Template:Link GA Template:Link GA Template:Link FA Template:Link FA

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=PlayStation_3&oldid=386874404"